Calendula: Sunshine in a Flower

Calendula has always felt like sunshine in a flower form to me—bright, golden, and full of warmth. I still remember the very first time I saw it; those radiant petals immediately sparked happiness inside me, almost as if the flower itself was smiling back. It was one of the first herbs I studied when I began my herbal journey, and from the beginning, it felt like it was woven right into my own spiritual path of healing. I knew, without question, that calendula would become part of anything I created.

Over time, my relationship with this little golden ally deepened. I found myself turning to calendula whenever I needed healing, and even on days when I didn’t, the simple thought of it brought me comfort. Its sunny presence has always invoked warmth and joy, and with repeated use, I began to notice how that same effect showed up physically—my skin responded with the same sense of calm and renewal that my heart felt. It became more than an herb; it became a reminder that healing can be joyful, that softness is strength, and that even the smallest bloom can carry powerful inspiration.

Calendula has a history that stretches far back, tied to both everyday remedies and spiritual traditions. The name itself comes from the Latin calendae, which means “the first day of the month.” How fitting that a flower so connected to new beginnings would carry a name rooted in renewal. In medieval Europe, it was also called “Mary’s Gold,” cherished not only for its beauty but for the golden healing light it symbolized.

Its benefits are as layered as its meanings. Known for anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and skin-soothing properties, calendula has been used to treat wounds, calm irritation, and bring comfort to tired skin. And while its physical gifts are undeniable, its emotional and spiritual gifts are just as radiant. Calendula carries the energy of courage, forgiveness, and self-love. To me, it feels like fire and sunlight—cleansing, persevering, and ever-renewing. Its energy resonates with the Solar Plexus, that center of confidence and vitality, and the Sacral Chakra, the wellspring of creativity and joy.

This is why calendula has become the heart of my body oil and scrub formulas. These creations were born not just from a desire to nourish skin but from a wish to share the energy that calendula has given me—joy, inspiration, healing, and the reminder that new beginnings are always possible. When I use them, it feels like blessing myself with golden light, and I love to pair that with journaling or quiet affirmations that reinforce the intentions I’m setting.

Calendula has taught me again and again that healing doesn’t have to be heavy—it can be bright, joyful, and full of warmth. That’s why I return to it, why I share it, and why I invite you to experience its golden touch for yourself.

Journaling Prompts Inspired by My Calendula Journey

When I think about new beginnings, what golden light or energy do I want to welcome into my life?

What has brought me joy lately, and how can I lean into that joy as a form of healing?

What part of myself needs forgiveness and warmth right now, and how can I begin offering it?

Affirmations to Work With Calendula’s Energy

I allow healing to feel joyful, bright, and full of warmth.

I am open to new beginnings, and I welcome them with courage and light.

Softness is my strength, and my creativity flows with ease and inspiration.

For me, calendula will always be sunshine in a flower—an herb that bridges healing and joy, body and spirit, softness and strength. It was one of the first plants to teach me that self-care isn’t just about repairing what feels broken, but about honoring the light that already shines within us.

If you’d like to bring calendula into your own rituals of healing and renewal, you can explore my calendula-infused body oil and scrub, created with care to share that same golden energy that has inspired me from the very beginning.